Corbett National Park, located in Uttarakhand, is a renowned wildlife sanctuary famous for its Bengal tigers and lush landscapes. Situated approximately 260 kilometers from Delhi, it is a favored destination for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and weekend travelers seeking a refreshing escape from the city.

This guide covers all practical ways to travel from Delhi to Corbett National Park, including train, bus, car, and flight options. You will find detailed travel tips, step-by-step plans, and advice on the best times to visit, ensuring a hassle-free and enjoyable journey.

Getting from Delhi to Corbett National Park – Main Options

Train

Traveling by train is a popular and economical choice for reaching Corbett National Park from Delhi. While there is no direct train to the park itself, nearby stations provide convenient access.

• Key stations:

  The closest major railway stations are Ramnagar and Kathgodam. Ramnagar station is about 10 km from Corbett’s main entrance, making it the preferred stop for most travelers.

• Duration and cost:

  Trains from Delhi to Ramnagar take approximately 5 to 6 hours, with ticket prices ranging from ₹150 for sleeper class to ₹800 for AC coaches. Booking via IRCTC is recommended to secure seats in advance.

• Frequency and comfort:

  Several trains run daily, including the Ranikhet Express and Corbett Park Link Express. AC coaches offer comfortable seating, but sleeper class can get crowded during peak seasons.

• Seasonal tips:

  During winter, fog can cause delays on this route, so allow extra travel time. Monsoon season may affect train punctuality due to track conditions.

• Last-mile connectivity:

  Auto-rickshaws and taxis are readily available at Ramnagar station. Prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber offer safer and fixed-rate rides to the park.

Bus

Buses provide an affordable and flexible way to reach Corbett National Park from Delhi. Both government and private operators run services on this route.

• Bus types and operators:

  The Uttarakhand Transport Corporation (UTC) and private Volvo buses operate from Delhi’s ISBT Kashmiri Gate to Ramnagar. Volvo buses offer more comfort and air-conditioning.

• Travel time and fares:

  The journey takes around 6 to 7 hours, depending on traffic, with fares ranging from ₹300 to ₹700. Booking tickets online or at ISBT is advised to avoid last-minute hassles.

• Route and stops:

  Buses travel via NH9 and NH309, passing through towns like Ghaziabad and Moradabad. Some buses make stops for refreshments and restroom breaks.

• Frequency:

  Multiple buses depart daily, with early morning and evening options. Night buses are less common but available during peak tourist seasons.

• Challenges:

  Traffic congestion near Delhi and Moradabad can delay buses. Avoid traveling during festival weekends to minimize delays.

Car/Self-Drive

Driving from Delhi to Corbett National Park is a favored option for travelers who prefer flexibility and comfort. The route offers scenic views and good road conditions.

• Route details:

  The most common route is via NH9 and NH309, covering approximately 260 km. The drive typically takes 5 to 6 hours, depending on traffic.

• Road conditions and tolls:

  Roads are mostly well-maintained with multiple toll plazas. The highway passes through towns like Ghaziabad, Hapur, and Moradabad, where fuel stations and eateries are available.

• Driving tips:

  Start early in the morning to avoid Delhi traffic and reach Corbett by afternoon. Avoid night driving, especially during monsoon, due to wildlife crossings and poor visibility.

• Parking and access:

  Most resorts and park entrances have secure parking. Ensure you have a valid driving license and vehicle papers, as forest checkposts may require verification.

• Local laws:

  Follow speed limits strictly inside the park area and avoid honking to prevent disturbing wildlife.

Flight

While there is no airport in Corbett National Park, flying to the nearest airport and then taking road transport is an option for quicker travel.

• Nearest airport:

  Pantnagar Airport, approximately 70 km from Corbett, is the closest domestic airport with limited flights from Delhi.

• Flight duration and cost:

  Flights from Delhi to Pantnagar take about 1 hour, with fares ranging from ₹2,000 to ₹4,000 depending on the season and airline.

• From airport to park:

  From Pantnagar, taxis or rental cars can be hired to reach Corbett National Park in around 2 hours. Pre-booking a cab is advisable due to limited availability.

• Alternative airports:

  Dehradun’s Jolly Grant Airport is another option but is farther, about 150 km away, requiring a longer road journey.

• Seasonal considerations:

  Flight schedules may be limited during off-peak seasons, so check availability in advance.

Step-by-Step Travel Plan

This simple itinerary is designed for first-time travelers from Delhi to Corbett National Park, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable trip.

• Book your transport tickets early:

  Whether by train, bus, or flight, secure your tickets at least two weeks in advance, especially during peak seasons like winter and holidays.

• Pack essentials for wildlife visits:

  Carry comfortable clothing, insect repellent, and binoculars. Early morning safaris require warm clothes as temperatures can be low.

• Reach your departure point early:

  Arrive at Delhi’s railway station, bus terminal, or airport at least an hour before departure to avoid last-minute rush and ensure smooth boarding.

• Arrange local transport in advance:

  Prebook a taxi or resort shuttle from Ramnagar station or Pantnagar airport to avoid waiting and negotiate fair fares.

• Check park timings and permits:

  Confirm safari timings and book permits online through the official Corbett National Park website or your resort to avoid on-spot hassles.

• Stay hydrated and carry snacks:

  Long journeys can be tiring; carry water bottles and light snacks, especially if traveling by bus or train.

Practical Travel Tips

• Safety first:

  Use prepaid taxis or app-based cabs like Ola and Uber for last-mile travel to avoid overcharging and ensure driver legitimacy.

• Food and water:

  Carry bottled water and avoid roadside food stalls unless recommended. Many resorts provide hygienic meals, so plan accordingly.

• Booking strategy:

  Use IRCTC for train tickets and official bus websites or apps for bus bookings. For flights, check airlines like IndiGo and SpiceJet for best deals.

• Local commute:

  Auto-rickshaws are available but negotiate fares beforehand. Resort shuttles often provide convenient transfers to park gates.

• Luggage advice:

  Pack light and waterproof bags during monsoon. Keep valuables secure, especially in crowded transport hubs.

• Seasonal warnings:

  Avoid traveling during heavy monsoon rains due to slippery roads and possible park closures. Winter fog can delay trains and flights.

Best Time & Conditions

The best time to visit Corbett National Park is from November to June when the weather is pleasant and wildlife sightings are frequent. Monsoon season from July to September brings heavy rains, making travel challenging.

Planning your journey during weekdays and avoiding festival weekends helps in smoother travel with less crowding on trains and roads.

• Avoid peak traffic hours in Delhi, especially morning and evening rush hours, to save time on the road.

• Winter mornings can be foggy, causing delays in train and flight schedules; plan accordingly.

• Early morning departures are ideal for road trips to enjoy cooler temperatures and less traffic.

• Monsoon travel is not recommended due to slippery roads and potential park closures.

Arrival at Corbett National Park & What to Expect

Upon arrival at Ramnagar station or nearby entry points, travelers are greeted by lush greenery and a tranquil atmosphere. The town of Ramnagar serves as the gateway, offering various accommodation options from budget lodges to luxury resorts.

Local transport includes prepaid taxis, auto-rickshaws, and resort shuttles that can take you to the park entrances. Popular areas to stay include Dhikala and Bijrani zones, known for their wildlife safaris and natural beauty.

Conclusion

The most efficient way to reach Corbett National Park from Delhi depends on your priorities. For budget travelers, trains to Ramnagar combined with local taxis offer a reliable and affordable option. For comfort and flexibility, self-driving or hiring a cab provides scenic views and control over your schedule.

With proper planning and awareness of seasonal conditions, you can confidently embark on this exciting journey to experience the wild beauty of Corbett National Park. Whether for a weekend getaway or a longer wildlife adventure, the route from Delhi is well-connected and traveler-friendly.